How Many Hens Do I Need?
It's one of the first questions every new flock owner asks — and one of the most important ones to get right. Too few hens and you're short on eggs. Too many and you're overwhelmed before you've even started.
Start With the Egg Math
The average hen lays 4–6 eggs per week depending on breed, age, and season:
- 1 dozen eggs per week — 3–4 hens
- 2 dozen eggs per week — 6–8 hens
- Enough to sell or share — 12–15+ hens
- Small egg business — 25–100+ hens
Add 20–25% more than your baseline if you want consistent year-round supply — production drops in winter and during the annual fall molt.
Factor in Your Space
- Inside the coop: 4 sq ft per bird minimum
- In the run: 8–10 sq ft per bird
An 8x8 coop comfortably houses 12–16 hens. Overcrowding causes stress, and stressed hens don't lay well.
Our Recommendation for Beginners
Start with 4–6 hens. It's enough to produce more eggs than most families can eat, manageable for first-timers, and leaves room to grow. We recommend Golden Comets as the ideal starter breed — 300+ eggs/year, calm, and beginner-friendly.
Want the full breakdown? Read the complete guide in The Learning Coop →